Ancient Origins and Evolution
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In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Lilith appears as a female demon associated with killing infants, having poison-filled breasts, and linked to nocturnal predatory birds.
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The story involves Gilgamesh slaying a dragon and Anzu bird to enable Ishtar to construct a bed from the Holy Hulu tree, symbolizing the connection between underworld and Earth.
Biblical and Jewish Interpretations
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Lilith is mentioned in Isaiah 34:14 as a night creature or screech owl, and in the Dead Sea Scrolls and Talmud as a succubus who engages with sleeping men.
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The Alphabet of Ben Sira portrays Lilith as Adam's first wife, expelled from Eden for refusing sexual submission, subsequently gaining demonic powers.
Symbolic Evolution
- Lilith's story has been reinterpreted over time, evolving from explaining infant mortality and childbirth deaths to symbolizing female independence against male dominance.